A few years back, the idea of starting a new job remotely would have seemed downright bizarre to most of us. But in this post-pandemic world, the process of navigating a new gig isn’t just a possibility, it’s now a very common occurrence thanks to the permanent adoption of remote and hybrid working in many industries.
Starting a new job remotely can add a whole extra layer of complexity and awkwardness to something that’s never been an easy experience. If you’re a visual learner, getting to know fresh systems and processes without being able to tap someone on the shoulder for a demo can seem really daunting. Then there’s the matter of building rapport with new colleagues and bosses without the traditional gold standard of icebreakers: The Friday pub lunch.
2 in 5 employees believe remote onboarding makes it harder to understand company culture
According to research online by job marketplace, SEEK.
If you’ve found yourself in the position of starting a new job remotely, there’s no need to freak out. With a bit of preparation plus a few tips and tricks, you’ll be all good (we promise!). Below, find your expert guide to nailing your first day while working remotely.
#1/ Prepare yourself for your first day
You know that giant folder of info HR sent you ahead of your first day? Open that bad boy up and check out what’s inside. “Allow yourself time to read relevant materials that are shared with you ahead of any formal training, familiarise yourself with your team through background reading,” says SEEK Career Coach, Leah Lambert.
You’ll also want to get your home office space sorted. Leah recommends setting up an appropriate workstation where you’ll encounter minimal noise and visual disruption to give yourself the best chances of smooth sailing on the first day.
If you feel the onboarding process isn’t going smoothly, Lambert recommends speaking up sooner than later. “Let [your workplace] know you need some extra assistance. For example, if your tech isn’t set up correctly, this can really impact you in those first few weeks in terms of your performance and your job satisfaction,” says Leah.
#2/ Get your scheduling systems sorted
Whether you prefer old-school paper diaries and lists or online calendars and task apps, figure out what works best for keeping yourself on track and keep on it. “Making a to-do list of daily, weekly and monthly tasks can help you prioritise and stay motivated. It’s also a good idea to have systems for your work or use a project tracker or calendar,” says Leah.
“Storing all of your important documents (paper and digital) in an organised way will help you work faster, smarter and more effectively. Likewise, make sure you factor in some breaks if working from home. A quick walk around the block in between meetings will help keep you motivated throughout the day,” suggests Leah.
#3/ Level up your tech skills
In 2022, saying you’re “just not tech savvy” doesn’t really cut it anymore… Especially, if you’re wanting to progress in a workplace that relies on tech. “It’s important to upskill quickly with the technology that’s available if you’re working from home. If this is all new to you, then you may have to ask for some training or be proactive and work it out yourself,” says Leah.
“There’s a huge range of tech tools for video calls, instant messaging and project management that allow employees to stay connected whilst working remotely. If this is something that you haven’t had to do in previous roles, then you may need to upskill fast,” continues Leah.
#4/ Find other ways to connect with people
One of the downsides of working from home, especially if you’re a people person, is the lack of human interaction. Leah’s tips? Make time in the day to get out and about for a bit of face time with someone other than your cat (if you WFH alone).
“If you are an extrovert who gets energy from spending time with people, then you may need to find other ways to connect with people outside of work. Walking to your local coffee shop and having a chat with some neighbourhood friends or attending a gym class after work might be just enough to keep you energised if you get a bit down working from home alone,” says Leah.
RELATED: Why You Shouldn’t Count On Your Career For Complete Life Satisfaction
#5/ Learn to self-critique your work
Working remotely can sometimes leave you wondering whether you’re doing a good job or not, especially if you’re someone who’s particularly motivated by external feedback. But, instead of shooting off an excess number of emails to get feedback on every aspect of your work, try becoming more confident with self-critiquing your work.
“Use your own critical eye to judge and assess your work and make sure to take breaks from tasks when you can,” says Leah. Once you’ve done that or if you feel it’s necessary to get some extra eyes on what you’re working on, “plan ahead to book a time with your team or manager to get their opinion and feedback on your work.”
